| Code | GG6548 |
|---|---|
| Duration | 12 weeks |
| Teaching Mode | Part-Time. See Additional Teaching Mode Information for more info. |
| Fees | Skillnet Subsidised Course Fee: €500 See Fees and Costs for full details. |
| Closing Date | Round One: 26 June 2026 |
| Credits | 5 |
| Start Date | 7 September 2026 |
Course Outline

Develop an understanding of the core concepts behind Geographical Information Systems (GIS), including how geographical data is defined, measured, structured, and represented, while building practical skills in applying GIS through hands-on exercises.
Module Overview:
This module explores the role of geographic information (GI) in society, andd introduces key principles and techniques of spatial data modelling.
You will examine field-based and object-based conceptualisations of space, and how these are expressed as spatial data structures. The module will explore the different ways in which this spatial and non-spatial data can be stored, retrieved, analysed, and applied. Practical GIS training is provided through hands-on laboratory sessions.
Learning Outcomes:
On successful completion of this module, students should be able to:
| 1 | Critically assess how GI may be structured, organised and used in GIS. |
| 2 | Demonstrate skills and practical experience in the use of one or more commercial GIS products; |
| 3 | Explain the key skills and practical abilities needed to effectively use of one or more commercial GIS products. |
Stack this Microcredential into a Postgraduate Certificate
This microcredential is part of a suite of six 5-credit microcredentials which can be stacked towards a Postgraduate Certificate in MetOcean for Offshore Wind.
You can choose to take any of these microcredentials individually, or if you successfully complete all six microcredentials within three years of starting your first microcredential, you will be awarded Postgraduate Certificate.
To see full details on stacking these microcredentials, please visit this page: MetOcean for Offshore Wind.
Additional Teaching Mode Information
Lecture Schedule:
| Day | Time | Semester |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 9.15-11.50am | One (Sep-Nov) |
All lectures are recorded so students may choose to attend in-person, live online or review recorded content in their own time.
Course Practicalities
Assessment - continuous assessment 100 marks
| Assignment | 1 x 2000 word written report | 25 marks |
| Assignment | 1 x computer based practical | 25 marks |
| Assignment | 1 x final report (group and individual components) | 40 marks |
| Presentation | 1 x group presentation | 10 marks |
Requirements
Programme Entry Requirements
- Applicants should have at least a Second Class Honours Grade II in a primary honours degree (NFQ, Level 8) (180 ECTS credits or equivalent) from a recognised third-level institution, in Geography, Geology, Environmental Sciences, Biology, Oceanography, Physics, Mathematics, Engineering or a related discipline.
Recognition of Prior Learning
Applicants who do not hold the above qualification, or who hold a qualification in another discipline (such as Arts or Social Sciences) may be eligible to apply through Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL).
To be considered, applicants should have a demonstrable interest and/or experience in coastal and marine management, and who can offer sufficient numerical abilities and at least 2 years' experience in a relevant maritime industry (applied).
- If you wish to apply via RPL, you must select “Yes” to the RPL question when completing your application in UCC Apply.
- As part of the application, you will be required to submit:
- A Personal Statement outlining your motivation for applying and detailing relevant work or life experience.
- Any other relevant supporting documentation evidencing your prior learning - please refer to the for details on appropriate evidence.
Fees and Costs
Programme Fee:
The full programme fee is €900. If you are not eligible for the below funding, the course fee is €900.
Skillnet Funding
Skillnet is dedicated to fostering skills and expertise in the field of green technology. They are partnering with UCC on the Introduction to Geographical Information Systems micro-credential, subsidising part of the course fee for eligible participants.
Eligible applicants will receive €400 funding towards the €900 course fee.
Funded applicants pay €500.
FUNDING ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA:
To be eligible for Skillnet funding, applicants must:
- Be based in the Republic of Ireland
- Be self-employed, or employed within a company that:
- Is a private enterprise based in the Republic of Ireland
- Is not a public sector body or a publicly funded organisation (e.g. community-based not-for-profits or charities)
Please note:
- Commercial semi-state companies are eligible, provided that the remaining programme fee is not funded from the public purse
- Sole traders are considered eligible as companies
For any queries regarding funding, please contact training@skillnetoffshorewindacademy.ie, including the module you wish to apply for.
How To Apply
- All applications for this programme are via .
- Subsidised applicants pay €500 on application, those not eligible for the fee subsidy will pay €900 on application.
- Once you have successfully applied for this programme through Skillnet Offshore Wind Academy, you will be provided with a link to register for the programme via UCC Apply.
Year 1 Modules
Year 2 Modules
Year 3 Modules
Year 4 Modules
For queries regarding course content or timetables please contact
Adult Continuing Education
Aosoideachas Leanúnach
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